2024 Toyota Grand Highlander

The 2024 Toyota Grand Highlander is a mid-size SUV offering three powertrain options: a 2.4L turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 265 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque, a 2.5L four-cylinder hybrid engine producing 245 horsepower, and a Hybrid MAX 2.4L turbocharged four-cylinder producing 362 horsepower and 400 lb-ft of torque. The turbocharged engine is paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission, while the hybrid engines use a CVT. The Grand Highlander is praised for its spacious third row, comfortable ride, and ample cargo space. Some criticisms include the infotainment system’s complexity and occasional wind noise at highway speeds.

Engine

2.4L Turbocharged Four-Cylinder

• Excessive Oil Consumption
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported that their 2.4L turbo engines are consuming an excessive amount of oil, requiring frequent top-offs between oil changes. This is sometimes indicated by a burning oil smell or visible exhaust smoke.
  • Solution: Toyota dealerships are investigating these cases. The solution varies depending on the severity, potentially including piston ring replacement or even engine replacement in extreme cases.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Investigation costs may vary. Repairs could range from a few hundred dollars for minor fixes to $5,000+ for engine replacement.
  • Recalls: None Found

2.5L Four-Cylinder Hybrid No Issues Found

Hybrid MAX 2.4L Turbocharged Four-Cylinder No Issues Found

Transmission

8-Speed Automatic (Paired with 2.4L Turbo) No Issues Found

CVT (Paired with 2.5L Hybrid and Hybrid MAX)

• Hesitation During Acceleration
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners report hesitation or a lag in power delivery when accelerating from a stop or at low speeds, particularly with the 2.5L hybrid. This can feel like the transmission is slow to respond or “searching” for the right gear ratio.
  • Solution: A software update to the transmission control module (TCM) may resolve the issue. In some cases, inspection of the CVT may be recommended.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Software updates are typically covered under warranty. CVT repairs could range from a few hundred to several thousand dollars depending on the extent of damage.
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension No Issues Found

Electrical

• Infotainment System Freezing/Crashing
  • Description/Symptoms: The infotainment system occasionally freezes, crashes, or becomes unresponsive. This can include issues with the touchscreen, navigation, and audio functions.
  • Solution: Restarting the infotainment system (often by holding the power button) may temporarily resolve the issue. A software update from the dealer is the permanent fix.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Software updates are typically covered under warranty.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Wireless Phone Charger Malfunctions
  • Description/Symptoms: The wireless phone charger may fail to charge phones consistently or may overheat phones during charging.
  • Solution: The dealership may replace the wireless charger unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Replacement is typically covered under warranty.
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Automatic Liftgate Problems
  • Description/Symptoms: The automatic liftgate may fail to open or close properly, or it may stop mid-cycle.
  • Solution: Recalibrating the liftgate or replacing the liftgate motor may be required.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Recalibration may be free. Motor replacement could range from $300-$700+.
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Rattling Noises
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported rattling noises coming from the dashboard, doors, or rear cargo area.
  • Solution: Identifying and isolating the source of the rattle is necessary. Dealers can apply felt padding or tighten loose components to address the issue.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Varies greatly depending on the source and complexity of the rattle, ranging from a minor adjustment to a more involved repair.
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2024 Toyota Grand Highlander appears to be a generally reliable vehicle, but some owners have reported issues. Engine issues seem to be rare, but can be costly to fix. CVT issues are common and the solution is to update the software for the TCM. Interior and exterior issues can be frustrating but are often minor. Most of the issues should be covered under the manufacturer’s warranty during the initial ownership period. As the vehicle is relatively new, additional long-term reliability data is still emerging.